On Site Coverage: Ridgeview Bob Hans Invitational

Ridgeview Bob Hans Invitational
Chad Germany


On-Site Coverage:

Race Recap

From the opening gun of the boys’ varsity race to the final finisher of the open 5k, Ridgeview High School proved once again why Bob Hans is among the best early season invitationals in the Jacksonville area. The Ridgeview course underwent several recent changes, however the course was well marked, and times were fast across all races. For many schools, Bob Hans serves as that final preparation before taking on the likes of the best in the state, however even with this in mind, the competition should not be taken lightly. The field was highlighted by traditional powers such as Bartram Trail, Nease, Bishop Kenny, Chiles, and Mandarin, while up-and-comers like Stanton Prep, St. Augustine, and Bishop Snyder would let their presence be known.
 
In the boys’ varsity portion, Michael Barr took control of the race early and never looked back as he finished first (16:29) and helped Bishop Kenny earn 3rd in the team standings. And speaking of team standings, Mandarin completely dominated. The self proclaimed “world famous Mandarin cross-country team” put 4 runners in the top ten, and even put a whopping 7 runners in the top ten of the boys’ junior varsity race. At the front of Mandarin’s top seven was Brett Nolan who won the race, and set a huge personal best with a time of 18:03.
 
Ocala Vanguard’s young one-two punch of Elizabeth Mulford and Audrey Carpenter took first and second respectively in the girls’ varsity race. This is their second 1-2 finish of the season, and as long as they are at the helm, the future is bright for Ocala Vanguard cross-country. Surprisingly however, a 1-2 finish would only be good enough for 13th in the team standings and Bishop Kenny would ultimately win.
 
The final race (open 5k) seemed to be a fan favorite as runners were able to watch coaches, parents, and younger siblings take part in the sport they know and love so very well. 
 

Girls Highlights

Boys Highlights

 

Videos (Finish line couresty of Half-Mile Timing) (Race Footage/Interview by Chad Germany)